AUGUST TURAK FOUNDATION
Educating Emily Fund
About the Educating Emily Fund
Established in 2017, the Educating Emily Fund is dedicated to supporting the holistic development of young people by addressing their educational, spiritual, mental, and physical needs. Unlike traditional scholarships, this fund provides a broad spectrum of support tailored to individual needs, including private school tuition, after-school and summer programs, psychological testing, tutoring, uniforms, and mentor programs.
Our approach is centered around the idea that comprehensive support requires a collaborative effort. We work closely with youth, their families, educators, healthcare professionals, and community organizations to build a supportive network. This collaborative model is rooted in the belief that “it takes a village” to truly nurture and uplift young individuals, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement needed to thrive.
Since its inception, the Educating Emily Fund has made a significant impact, assisting seven young women, three young men, and an entire high school varsity football team. The fund’s reach continues to grow, with current initiatives including support for high school students through our fall internship programs.
We are passionate about fostering meaningful growth and purpose in the lives of young people and invite you to learn more about our work.
Meet Emily
Years ago, August Turak met a 7-year-old girl named Emily, who would come to profoundly impact his life. The story began when Turak hired Emily’s father to help with various tasks on his farm. Emily, a child of divorce, would join him on weekends. As Emily and August grew close, he learned of her struggles: she was being bullied and failing at her troubled public school.
Moved by her situation, Turak decided to provide the financial support Emily needed to attend a private school. As he shared her story on social media, the response was overwhelmingly positive and touching. Many people wanted to contribute, inspiring the idea of creating the Educating Emily Fund. This initiative would help Emily and others like her, offering a way for donors to receive tax deductions while supporting a meaningful cause. The ATF Board of Directors quickly and unanimously approved the creation of the fund, as Turak stated -
“The fund’s mission transcends traditional financial support; it embodies the principle of transforming selfishness into selflessness. Emily’s story beautifully illustrates this transformation”
Emily waving at Iron Gate Farm
Today, Emily has turned her experiences into a force for good within her community. Inspired by the support she received, she actively volunteers within her community. Her dedication to helping others reflects her journey from focusing on her own difficulties to contributing meaningfully to those around her. Emily’s commitment to giving back exemplifies the core mission of the fund: fostering a transition from selfish concerns to a selfless impact on one’s community.
Once a student struggling with academic and personal challenges, she received vital support from the Educating Emily Fund, which provided her with the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
Emily with the August Turak Foundation
Over the years, our fund has continued to expand its efforts, supporting not just Emily but many other young people in need. We have provided assistance for private school tuition, extracurricular programs, tutoring, and more, working closely with families and communities to foster holistic development.
Our commitment remains steadfast in helping children grow and thrive, inspired by Emily’s remarkable journey and the collective spirit of selflessness that drove the creation and evolution of the fund.
